Alexander Calder (July 22, 1898 – November 11, 1976) was an American
sculptor who is best known for his innovative mobiles (kinetic sculptures
powered by motors or air currents) that embrace chance in their aesthetic and
his monumental public sculptures. Born into a family of artists, Calder’s work
first gained attention in Paris in the 1920s and was soon championed by the
Museum of Modern Art in New York, resulting in a retrospective exhibition in
1943. Although primarily known for his sculpture, Calder also created paintings
and prints, miniatures (such as his famous Cirque Calder), theater set design,
jewelry design, tapestries and rugs, and political posters.